Girls on Board and Boys’ Strength in Sharing

Thursday 9th January marked the launch of two new initiatives for our Year 9 students aimed at fostering stronger friendships and promoting mental wellbeing, empowering them to navigate social challenges and support one another in their personal growth.

Building on the success of previous sessions with Years 7 and 8, the award-winning Girls on Board initiative was rolled out to our Year 9 girls, empowering them to tackle the complexities of friendships, resolve conflicts, and build stronger connections. Through role-play scenarios led by our Sixth Form students, the girls explored real-life friendship challenges, reflecting on how their actions can affect relationships both at school and at home. The session emphasised the importance of trust, transparency, and understanding, helping them develop the skills to navigate difficult situations independently.

Meanwhile, our Year 9 boys took part in a series of thought-provoking activities designed to promote health and wellbeing. Led by two of our Year 9 tutors, David Hammond and Matt Richards, the boys engaged in games and breakout sessions that encouraged them to open up about their feelings and recognise the importance of mutual support. “We focused on health, hygiene, and the importance of sharing our experiences,” explained Matt. “The smaller group discussions gave them a chance to reflect on their happiness at school, at home, and with friends, and think about how they could better support one another.” This session aimed to foster an environment where the boys feel comfortable expressing themselves and seeking support whenever needed, in the spirit of Boys’ Strength in Sharing. Both initiatives are part of our ongoing commitment to providing a supportive and empowering environment for all our students.

You can see more photos on our facebook page.